For local service businesses, your Google Business Profile (GBP) is often the first thing a customer sees. A well-managed profile brings in calls, direction requests and website visits every day. Use this checklist to make sure yours is working as hard as it can.
1. Get the basics exactly right
- Business name matches your real-world signage, with no extra keywords
- Address or service area is accurate
- Phone number and website link are correct and tracked
- Opening hours, including holiday hours, are up to date
2. Choose the right categories
Your primary category has the biggest impact on which searches you show for. Pick the most specific one that describes your main service, such as “Self storage facility” or “HVAC contractor”. Then add secondary categories only where they truly fit.
3. Fill in services and products
Add every service you offer, with a short description for each. This helps Google match you to more specific searches, like “boiler repair” or “climate controlled storage”.
4. Write a helpful description
Use the 750 characters to explain who you help, what you do and where you work. Write for people first. Mention your main services and areas naturally.
5. Add real photos regularly
Upload photos of your team, vans, premises and finished work. Real photos build trust far more than stock images.
6. Post every month
Regular posts show Google and customers that your business is active. Share offers, seasonal tips, new services and recent work.
7. Build a steady flow of reviews
- Ask every happy customer, with a direct review link
- Reply to every review, good or bad, within a few days
- Never buy or filter reviews, as it breaks Google’s rules
8. Keep your details consistent everywhere
Your name, address and phone number should match across your website, directories and social profiles. These listings, known as citations, help Google trust your business details.
9. Track rankings across your whole area
Checking rankings from your own office only shows part of the picture. A geo-grid heat map shows where you rank across your full service area, so you can see where to improve.
10. Review your performance monthly
Look at calls, website clicks, direction requests and the search terms people used to find you. Compare month on month to see what is working.
Need help with your profile? See my Local SEO and Google Business Profile service or ask for a free GBP review.